Antibody-induced apoptosis

Abstract

Anti-Her2 antibodies which induce apoptosis in Her2 expressing cells are disclosed. The antibodies are used to "tag" Her2 overexpressing tumors for elimination by the host immune system. Also disclosed are hybridoma cell lines producing the antibodies, methods for treating cancer using the antibodies, and pharmaceutical compositions.

What is claimed is:  
     
       1. A method for inducing apoptosis in Her2 expressing cells comprising administering an amount of an antibody or fragment thereof, wherein said amount is sufficient to induce apoptosis in said Her2 expressing cells, and wherein said antibody or fragment thereof binds an epitope on Her2 which is recognized by a monoclonal antibody produced by hybridoma cell line ATCC. No. HB 12078. 
     
     
       2. The method of  claim 1  wherein the cells are cancer cells. 
     
     
       3. A method of treating cancer characterized by overexpression of Her2, in a patient, comprising administering an amount of an antibody or fragment thereof, wherein said amount is sufficient to induce apoptosis in Her2 overexpressing cells, and wherein said antibody or fragment thereof binds an epitope on Her2 which is recognized by a monoclonal antibody produced by hybridoma cell line ATCC. No. HB 12078.